Frequently Asked Questions

A: Lodi is in California’s Central Valley, about 35 miles south of Sacramento and roughly 90 minutes from much of the Bay Area.

• Good to know: Lodi is an easy day trip, but a weekend gives you time for wine, downtown, and parks
  

• Next Steps: Getting Here | Downtown Lodi | Itineraries

A: Lodi is best known for its welcoming wine community, including old-vine Zinfandel, and over 135 other grape varieties, plus a walkable downtown and farm-fresh food.

• Good to know: Many experiences are approachable and not overly formal.
• Next steps: Wineries | Things to Do

A: Spring and fall are popular for mild weather and vineyard season, but Lodi has events and tasting year-round.

• Season tip: Summer evenings and winter weekends can be great for smaller crowds.
• Next steps: Events Calendar | Annual Events | Weather

A: Most times no, but reservations are recommended for busy weekends, larger groups, and special experiences.

• Tip: If you’re arriving after 2 pm, call ahead.
• Next steps: Wineries

A: Tasting fees ($10 - $20) vary by winery and experience. Most wineries waive the fee with a bottle purchase.

• Tip: Check the winery listing before you go so there are no surprises.
• Next steps: Wineries

A: The “best” winery depends on your vibe, budget, and what you like to drink.

• Fast way to choose: Pick a varietal (Zinfandel, Albariño, bubbles) or a vibe (casual patio, reserve tasting, food pairings).
• Next steps: Wineries | Award Winning Wines

A: It depends on the winery. Some are family-friendly and some are adults-focused.

• Tip: Always check the winery’s policy before you go.
• Next steps: Family-friendly wineries

A: Policies vary. Many allow dogs outdoors, fewer allow them indoors.

• Tip: Keep dogs leashed and bring water.
• Next steps: Dog-friendly wineries

A: Plan transportation in advance if you’ll visit multiple wineries.

• Options: guided tours, private drivers, rideshare (availability varies), or a designated driver.
• Next steps: Wine Tours

A: Many wineries can ship where permitted, but rules vary by state and season.

• Tip: Ask about weather holds for hot months.
• Next steps: Wine Shipping (coming soon)

A: Use our Events Calendar for the most current list of festivals, live music, and weekend happenings.

• Tip: Check it mid-week for the best selection.
• Next steps: Events This Weekend | Events Calendar

A: Buy tickets from the official event page or the official ticket partner listed on Visit Lodi.

Important: Avoid third-party resellers unless the organizer recommends them.

Next steps: Events Calendar

A: Lodi hosts seasonal festivals and signature community events throughout the year.

• Tip: Many annual events have their own planning guides (parking, timing, what to bring).
• Next steps: Annual Events Guide

A: Holiday events change each year, so check our Holiday hub for current dates, times, and parking tips.

• Includes: Parade of Lights, Festival of Trees, holiday markets, New Year’s events.
• Next steps: Holidays in Downtown Lodi | New Year's Events

A: Downtown Lodi is walkable and packed with tasting rooms, restaurants, coffee stops, shops, and local events.

• Best for: a “park once” afternoon or evening.
• Next steps: Downtown Guide | Downtown Shopping | Downtown Restaurants

A: Downtown offers public lots, street parking, and a central parking structure.

• Tip: Time limits and locations vary, so use the City's downtown parking guide.
• Next steps: City Parking Info | Downtown Parking Map

A: Yes. Many downtown highlights are within a short walk of each other.

• Tip: Take a Historic Walking Tour
• Next steps: Downtown Historic Walking Tour

A: Lodi is easiest by car and is also served by Amtrak.

• Tip: If you’re coming for events or weekend tasting, plan parking and any reservations first.
• Next steps: Getting Here

A: Yes, and it’s located right in downtown.

• Tip: Arrive hungry; downtown is an easy first stop.
• Next steps: Getting Here

A: Rideshare availability can vary by time of day and season, so plan ahead for evenings and weekends.

• Tip: For multi-winery days, tours or a pre-arranged driver are more reliable.
• Next steps: Tours

A: Sacramento International Airport (SMF), about 45 minutes away. Additionally, Stockton Metropolitan Airport (SCK) is 20 miles away offering direct flights from Las Vegas and Phoenix providing alternative travel options. SFO, OAK, and SJC are also commonly used.

Tip: Traffic can vary depending on day/time. Plan ahead.

Next steps: Getting Here

A: Biking, birding, golf, and easy park time are popular complements to wine and downtown.

• Tip: Winter birding and spring wildflowers are underrated.
• Next steps: Outdoor Guide

A: Lodi Lake is popular for walking, picnics, and seasonal water activities, with rules and fees that can change by season.

• Tip: Check the guide for current hours, fees, and what’s allowed.
• Next steps: Lodi Lake Guide

A: Yes, the Isenberg Crane Reserve is renowned for birdwatching, especially during the fall and winter migrations. Visitors can witness the Sandhill Cranes and other migratory birds, making it a must-visit for birding enthusiasts.

A: Lodi has strong downtown dining plus local favorites around town.

• Best bets: brunch, patios, date-night spots, family-friendly options.
• Next steps: Restaurants

A: Some wineries offer food pairings or small plates, while others focus on tastings only.

• Tip: Check each winery listing before you go.
• Next steps: Wineries

A: Stay in a short-term rental or bed & breakfast near downtown for walkability, one of our many traditional hotels & motels, or choose a resort-style stay for a full weekend retreat.

• Tip: Book earlier for major event weekends.
• Next steps: Where to Stay

A: Some lodging partners are pet-friendly, but policies vary by property.

Tip: Confirm fees and restrictions before booking.

Next steps: Places to Stay

A: Visit Lodi provides visitor resources, maps, and trip-planning support.

• Tip: Start with our itineraries if you want a simple plan.
• Next steps: Visitors Center | Lodi Map | Winery Map | Contact Us

A: Yes. Share your dates and interests and we’ll point you to the best-fit ideas.

Helpful details: wine style, food preferences, budget, mobility needs, family/pets.

Next steps: Contact Us